In 1965, this sign signaled tolls to drivers exiting the Kentucky Turnpike (I65) at Fern Valley Road. Local tolls ended in the early 1970s.

About Ted Nugent and the GOP

I do not have an appreciation for Ted Nugent and his genre of music, but I accept that he has talent, just not for my taste. I did not support the policies and actions of President George W. Bush and I expressed this sentiment by not voting for him, twice. However, when Air Force One flew into Louisville during his visit I felt that the office and the man deserved my respect. I accept that his vision for the country was genuine, though different from mine.

Ted Nugent referred to President Obama as "a Chicago communist-raised, communist-educated, communist subhuman mongrel." I feel sorry for him for feeling this way. Clearly, judging by these comments, he has some unresolved issues.

Most troubling, and disappointing to me, is that neither within the Republican Party nor within the campaign of Greg Abbott, for whom Mr. Nugent is a vocal supporter, has there been condemnation of his words.

To be taken seriously we must act seriously. To allow such childish and thoughtless comments to stand without rebuke suggests either acquiescence with Mr. Nugent's oratory, or agreement with his content. Not to cast aspersion upon the entirety of the Republican Party, but the disdain and disrespect shown to this president by its members is shameful.

I am concerned by the silence to Mr. Nugent's comments for it is but a short step to saying the same thing about me or any other African American.

Regards Mr. Nugent, I will not support his record sales (admittedly not an issue), nor will I purchase any products that sponsor him or that he endorses.

As for the campaign for which he is a de facto spokesperson, I will do all that I can do to work toward their defeat at the polls.

I hope that others who hope for a more sane and constructive discourse will also speak out.

WAYNE B. TUCKSON, M.D.

Louisville 40207

Toll roads

I remember the toll booths along I-65 just south of Louisville and passing through them on trips south along the interstate as a child. I also remember how my wife and I when we were dating were looking for the drive-in and ended up on I-65 where we had to pay the toll that was required of travelers.

Years later, my wife and I went to the remaining covered bridges in our commonwealth. At one time there were over 400 of the structures and many required a toll of anyone passing through them. The toll was used to maintain the bridge and the amount was based on whether you traversed the bridge on horse, wagon, and how many animals were involved.

No fee was charged on Sundays or if the traveler was going to a funeral. The history of toll roads, bridges and toll houses are not new to our commonwealth. Roads and bridges were built with private money, shares were sold and tolls were charged.

The history is fascinating and there were even battles fought over the tolls in the late 19th Century. Bridges, toll gates and toll houses were burned by men wearing masks and riding on horses. Hopefully, we will not repeat that aspect of our past. I have photos of the Colville Covered Bridge, which allowed passage over Hinkston Creek, and a toll house near the bridge.

DAVID W. HAMMER

Louisville 40207

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Letters | Ted Nugent, toll roads

I do not have an appreciation for Ted Nugent and his genre of music, but I accept that he has talent, just not for my taste.